Hope they transit Sydney on the way to NZ.

Not sure they'd need to Grahame. Wouldn't a hop across to Lord Howe or Norfolk Island then down to Auckland be the better route?

There are issues getting a Q300 out of Lord Howe and Norfolk would only be reachable with ferry tanks fitted which I'm guessing is the most probable way of doing it.

As I've previously stated, don't think it was here, it will never happen, Qantas will never introduce anything that will impend on the business of Qlink.

With standard tanks and long range cruise a Q300 would not have an issue with Brisbane to Norfolk, as 1000nm is possible with a 3000kg payload, easily covering the 761nm journey. From Cairns is 1422nm requiring Long Range tanks, with the same payload (3000kg) it's range is 1950nm. Would not be surprised to see them go BNE-AKL direct, 1237nm should be pretty easy with the jet stream and good weather at AKL.

That is our thinking up here that they will depart either OOL or BNE to NLK.

http://australianaviation.com.au/201...rom-paintshop/

More pics,

Mentioned that there will be a cabin refresh as well.

Not sure if this has been completed ?

Hi Greg,

I saw that -TQM was receiving maintenance in the Hawker Pacific hanger at Cairns this afternoon. Could this be where the cabin refresh is taking place?

I'm sure they will try and find a way to fit an extra 30 seats on the aircraft.....

Seat count remains the same.

Jetstar style carpets, seat covers, curtains and trims will be added.